Williams in listening mode

MILWAUKEE — The first attractive offer might suit general manager Ken Williams in his effort to improve the White Sox.

Williams smiled Tuesday night when confirming that a trade proposal from another team surprised him at the general managers meetings.

Although Williams didn't elaborate on details, he spoke about how the general shape of the Sox could change soon.

"We're more open to making potential moves that take us a little younger, take us a step back and live to fight another day if we can get what we've identified as the type of targets you want in such a deal," Williams said. "Whether you can get those targets remains to be seen. So we're more open."

Left-hander John Danks and right fielder Carlos Quentin — who are in their final years as arbitration-eligible players — bring the most value. Danks could be the perfect fit for a team that loses out on left-handed free agents C.J. Wilson and Mark Buehrle.

The Yankees, who have kept a close watch on Danks since the end of the 2010 season and have plenty of young pitching prospects, and the Rangers, where Danks started his professional career, are potential fits. The Yankees also could use a left-handed reliever such as the Sox's Matt Thornton, who will earn $12 million over the next two seasons and whom Yankees manager Joe Girardi selected for the 2010 American League All-Star team.

Quentin, 29, is recovered from a left shoulder injury and has resumed workouts, agent Brodie Van Wagenen said.

Meanwhile, Williams has remained adamant about receiving major league-ready talent in any deals.

"We're not going to make moves unless we get an impact player or impact-type prospects, guys who are close to being ready," Williams said.

Williams did anoint Alejandro De Aza, who batted .329 and had a .400 on-base percentage in 54 games in the second half, as the Sox's leadoff batter.

"(Manager) Robin Ventura makes the lineup out," Williams said. "He will be given a suggestion, though."

De Aza's hold on the leadoff spot could create some competition in center field with Alex Rios, who is coming off a subpar season.

"There is going to be a fight for some jobs," Williams said.

Another factor is the comeback attempt by designated hitter Adam Dunn, who batted .159 with a franchise-record 177 strikeouts.

"It has to come from within, it has to come from him," said Williams, who hopes Dunn can play first base more frequently. "(Capability) doesn't disappear overnight. We're talking about a guy with a long track record of success."

Regardless of the fates of Danks and Buehrle, Williams reaffirmed reliever Chris Sale will move to the starting rotation.